Maryland Continuing Care Residents' Association (BRAC0067)
Founded in 1993 by Dr. Robert Sparks, the Maryland Continuing Care Residents Association (MaCCRA) is a non-profit, volunteer-led organization dedicated to protecting the rights, financial security, and well-being of residents in Maryland’s Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs). MaCCRA serves as the leading advocate for CCRC residents, influencing significant state legislation regarding operating reserves, governance, and disclosures.
Key Historical Milestones
- 1993: Founded by Dr. Robert Sparks, a Broadmead resident and retired state economist, to represent the interests of CCRC residents.
- 1994-1995: Early legislative efforts led to the creation of the Continuing Care Advisory Committee, in cooperation with the Maryland Department of Aging.
- 1996: Achieved major legislative success with SB 543 (amending Article 70B), establishing requirements for operating reserves, governance, disclosures, and change of ownership.
- 2000-2002: Supported regulations regarding direct admission to CCRC nursing homes and secured further changes in CCRC governance (2001).
- Ongoing Advocacy: Over 30 years, MaCCRA has grown to represent over 20,000 residents across Maryland, focusing on financial transparency, grievance policies, and quality of care.
Core Purposes and Activities
- Legislative Advocacy: Employs lobbyists to push for stronger consumer protection laws, including increased resident representation on governing boards and the establishment of resident grievance procedures.
- Education and Structure: Organizes local chapters within various Maryland CCRCs to inform residents of their rights and foster community engagement.
- Member Support: Focuses on the security of entrance fees and the quality of assisted living/skilled nursing care within CCRCs.
MaCCRA continues to act as the sole organization dedicated exclusively to the advocacy of CCRC residents in Maryland.